[dulaney0330]

I hate public speaking and I try to avoid it at all costs. I tend to do OK at giving presentations but I am so nervous when I give speeches. I have feared public speaking since I was in grade school and all my early memories of it has made me avoid it even more.

Because my field (psychology) does not have a lot of speeches/presentations (as compared to business), I cannot overcome this fear by systematic desensitization. I try deep breathing before a speech but that does little good because I still believe I will mess up during a speech.

Has anyone struggled with this fear and overcame it? How?

Any suggestions?